Every week, 2,000 - 3,000 Second District residents write to me about the issues pending before Congress, and I work hard to respond to each person as promptly and thoughtfully as possible. On this "Letter of the Week" blog, I highlight constituent letters that are of general interest. If you'd like to share your own views, please feel free to e-mail me at any time!

Dear Rep. Boyda,

I am an educator who continuously tries to think ‘outside the box’ when it comes to teaching my students about this great country in which we live. As a Member of Congress, I’m certain you frequently run across resources for information about our nation. I don’t live in your district but I would be most grateful if you have any resources you would be willing to share.

Mary
Kansas City 


Dear Mary,

I’m very happy to send you details about an exciting opportunity for public libraries and schools in Kansas – the National Endowment for the Humanities’ (NEH) new Picturing America initiative. This program provides an innovative way for citizens of all ages to explore the history and character of America through some of our nation’s greatest works of art. One of the best parts is that Picturing America is a free resource.

Images of people, places and events illustrating American history give citizens a chance to better understand our country’s past and the principles for which it stands. From the courage and leadership portrayed through Emanuel Leutze’s Washington Crossing the Delaware, to the power of American democracy shown through Norman Rockwell’s Freedom of Speech, these works of art represent enduring American ideals.

Picturing America is available to all public K-12 schools and all public libraries. Participating institutions will receive:

• Forty, high-quality reproductions of the selected masterpieces (24” by 36”).
• An in-depth teacher’s resource book.
• An online resource: PicturingAmerica.NEH.gov. 

This program is an exciting new way to help our fellow citizens and voters learn about democracy and what makes us uniquely American. For more information and an online application visit PicturingAmerica.neh.gov or email picturingamerica@neh.gov. Applications are being accepted now through October 31, 2008.

I hope you will find this information helpful as you consider curriculum decisions for the upcoming year. Let me also take this chance to offer my most sincere gratitude for your commitment to our children and our state.

Very truly yours, 

Nancy Boyda
Member of Congress